Manufacturing Process Engineer
Location: Thatcham, Berkshire
Department: Engineering & Production
Reports To: Engineering Manager
Hours: 40 hours per week
(Monday to Thursday 7:00am to 4:00pm, Friday 7:00am to 1:00pm)
Salary: Competitive, dependent upon experience
About GowringsVersa Mobility
GowringsVersa Mobility is the UK's original manufacturer and supplier of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs). With a long-standing reputation for innovation, quality, and customer focus, we provide specialist mobility solutions that improve independence and accessibility for people across the UK.
We are seeking an experienced and motivated Manufacturing Process Engineer to join our Engineering Team, providing engineering support across our Production and Service operations while driving continuous improvement and manufacturing excellence.
Purpose of the Role
The Manufacturing Process Engineer is responsible for developing, implementing, and continuously improving manufacturing processes to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective production. The role will support New Product Introduction (NPI), process development, quality improvements, and operational efficiency while ensuring compliance with relevant quality, health and safety, and industry standards.
Key Responsibilities
Manufacturing Engineering
· Provide engineering support to production, service, and maintenance activities.
· Evaluate current manufacturing processes and identify opportunities for improvement in quality, efficiency, cost, and safety.
· Establish and implement manufacturing methods for new and existing vehicle conversions.
· Develop, maintain, and continuously improve manufacturing process documentation and work instructions.
· Create, maintain, and update Bills of Materials (BOMs) and associated manufacturing data.
· Raise, manage, and implement Engineering Change Notices (ECNs).
· Coordinate manufacturing activities associated with New Product Introduction (NPI).
· Work closely with suppliers to support material, tooling, and process development requirements.
· Support Design and Process FMEA activities.
· Conduct and maintain manufacturing process risk assessments.
· Ensure all manufacturing processes comply with Health & Safety requirements and company standards.
· Participate in Engineering, Production, and project review meetings.
Continuous Improvement
· Apply Lean Manufacturing principles to improve productivity and reduce waste.
· Support Value Stream Mapping (VSM) activities and process optimisation initiatives.
· Review manufacturing performance and recommend improvements to achieve operational objectives.
· Ensure process cycle times and standard work instructions are realistic, measurable, and achievable within budget targets.
· Support production KPI monitoring and reporting.
Equipment, Tooling & Facilities
· Ensure suitable jigs, fixtures, tooling, machinery, and equipment are available and utilised effectively within manufacturing processes.
· Support equipment installation, commissioning, and validation activities.
· Assist in planning and introducing new manufacturing processes and technologies.
· Record and analyse process performance data for continuous improvement purposes.
Project & Stakeholder Support
· Support the development and execution of engineering and manufacturing project plans.
· Participate in project meetings and provide regular progress updates.
· Visit suppliers, customers, and external sites as required.
· Present monthly reports relating to manufacturing performance, process improvements, and project progress.
· Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams including Engineering, Production, Quality, Purchasing, and Service Departments.
Knowledge, Skills & Experience
Essential
· Experience in a Manufacturing Process Engineering role within a low to medium volume manufacturing environment.
· Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing methodologies and continuous improvement techniques.
· Experience creating and managing process work instructions and manufacturing documentation.
· Knowledge of BOM generation, document control systems, and MRP processes.
· Understanding of:
o PPAP (Production Part Approval Process)
o APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning)
o FMEA (Failure Mode & Effects Analysis)
o SPC (Statistical Process Control)
· Knowledge of Value Stream Mapping (VSM).
· Familiarity with ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems.
· Working knowledge of Health, Safety, Environmental, and COSHH regulations.
· Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
· Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
· Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.
Desirable
· Experience within automotive, specialist vehicle, mobility, or conversion manufacturing.
· Experience using SolidWorks or similar 3D CAD packages.
· Understanding of vehicle manufacturing and assembly processes.
· Project management experience.
Personal Attributes
· Self-motivated and proactive.
· Strong attention to detail.
· Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
· Well organised with effective planning and prioritisation skills.
· Flexible approach to work and changing business requirements.
· Committed to continuous improvement and operational excellence.
What We Offer
· Competitive salary based on experience.
· 25 days holiday plus bank holidays.
· Company pension scheme with up to 3% employer contribution.
· Company sick pay at management discretion.
· Workwear provided.
· Tooling and equipment provided.
· Onsite parking.
· Canteen facilities.
· Opportunity to work within a market-leading specialist vehicle manufacturer.
GowringsVersa Mobility is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates.
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Thatcham RG19 4ZD: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Application question(s):
- How many years experience as an Manufacturing Process Engineer do you have?
- Tell me more about your previous engineering experience
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
